Rawalpindi, October 22, 2025 – South Africa is mounting a spirited comeback against Pakistan in the second Test of their series, with Tristan Stubbs leading the charge on Day 3. After Pakistan posted 333 in their first innings, South Africa ended the day at 185/4, trailing by 148 runs. Stubbs is closing in on a century, raising hopes for the Proteas.

Pakistan started strong after winning the toss and choosing to bat on Day 1, but South Africa's bowlers, particularly Keshav Maharaj, fought back. Maharaj's seven-wicket haul helped restrict Pakistan to a manageable total, after the hosts had looked set for a score exceeding 350. Sloppy fielding from South Africa, including multiple dropped catches, initially aided Pakistan's progress. Abdullah Shafique (57) and Shan Masood (87) benefitted from these errors, building a solid foundation for Pakistan's innings.

On Day 2, Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada initially posed problems for Pakistan, but Salman Agha and Saud Shakeel counter-attacked, before Maharaj's intervention triggered a collapse. South Africa's response on Day 2 was cautious, but debutant spinner Asif Afridi struck twice late in the day, giving Pakistan the upper hand.

Day 3 saw Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs frustrate the Pakistani spinners, focusing on consolidating South Africa's position. Stubbs, in particular, has set his sights on a century, demonstrating resilience and determination. The partnership between Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne will be crucial for South Africa on Day 4, as they aim to reduce the deficit and put pressure on Pakistan.

Earlier in the series, South Africa secured a 2-wicket victory in the first Test. They later won the series 2-0. The current two-match Test series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-2027. Following the Test series, Pakistan and South Africa are scheduled to play three T20Is and three ODIs. Faisalabad's Iqbal Stadium is set to host its first ODI in 17 years.